A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Chatterton enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2006 and chose to serve in the master-at-arms enlisted rating. She is a graduate of Kaplan University where she earned both an associate and bachelor's degree.

"Her personal example, positive attitude, motivation, and extensive knowledge of the Military Working Dog program make her an excellent role model for her peers. They also place her at the forefront of mentoring MA 'A' School Sailors; more than 2,000 per year."

She is assigned (operationally) to the U.S. Air Force 341st Training Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas. In this capacity, she supervises and facilitates an 11-week joint-service Military Working Dog Handler Course.

"What an incredible honor it is to be selected as the 2017 Sailor of the Year for CENSECFOR," said Chatterton. "The vigorous competition within the command is ever increasing, and I am honored to be regarded amongst the top contenders. Serving our great country is at the forefront of my life and for me to give back to the Navy for all it has given me."

She also served as a command facilitator for the Navy's "Full Speed Ahead Master Mobile Training Team." During this time, she provided training to more than 500 Sailors nationwide that taught and reinforced the Navy's core values of honor, courage, and commitment.

"It has absolutely given me added strength to achieve my own personal goals as well as my career objectives," said Chatterton in response to the question asking if her Sailor of the Year selection has given her renewed or added determination to excel even further in her naval career. "Every Sailor envisions being part of the time-honored tradition of joining the Chief's Mess. It has been my dream since I first enlisted in the Navy."

Chatterton offered some encouraging words to her fellow Sailors throughout the Fleet who seek the honor to become Sailor of the Year at their command.

"Fellow shipmates, never give up! In a highly competitive military force, you will often feel as though you are not doing enough, but you must never stop believing in the milestones you can achieve through integrity powered leadership," said Chatterton. "It is not about recognition; it is about being the best version of you that you can be and knowing that your efforts will help you be a better person and Sailor."

Since no Sailor achieves success on his or her own, Chatterton extended a special thanks to those who have supported and encouraged her throughout her naval career.

"The countless sacrifices that my family has made so I could achieve my goals are just incredible," said Chatterton. "I thank my many mentors who have guided and led me throughout my career, and I also thank my chain of command at NTTC Lackland for their unwavering support and guidance that has led me to where I am today."

The Center for Security Forces provides specialized training to more than 23,000 students each year. It has 14 training locations spread throughout the United States and around the world where training breeds confidence.

For more information about the Center for Security Forces, visit us at http://www.navy.mil/local/csf.

For more news from the Center for Security Forces, visit us at www.netc.navy.mil/centers/csf.

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